E153

Carbon
Black, Vegetable Carbon

Whilst this black colouring can be obtained from various sources
including activated charcoal, bones, meat, blood, various fats
oils and resins or just the incomplete combustion of natural
gas, it is normally derived from burnt vegetable matter. This
could include Genetically Modified crops.

Vegetarians should note that it can be of animal origin.

Can be found in concentrated fruit juices, jams, jellies and
liquorice.

Banned as a food additive in the United States of America.
Suspected as a carcinogenic agent although it is now believed
that this may have been due to the presence of impurities.